How Do You Use A Peg Votive Candle Holder?
What is a Peg Votive Candle Holder?
A peg votive candle holder is a small glass or metal container used to hold a votive candle. Votive candles are small, cylindrical candles, usually around 1-2 inches tall and 0.5-1 inch in diameter. Peg votive holders have a metal or glass peg in the center that the votive candle fits over and rests upon.
Peg votive candle holders are commonly made from glass, metal, ceramic, or other non-flammable materials. Glass peg votives allow the candle light to shine through for a warm, decorative glow. Metal peg votive holders like tin, iron, or aluminum often have more decorative shapes and designs. Ceramic peg votive holders can be glazed in different colors and patterns.
Peg votive candle holders typically come in sizes meant for standard votive candles. The holder opening and peg size are about 0.5-1 inch wide to fit around a votive. The overall height ranges from 2-4 inches tall to surround the votive while leaving the top exposed for lighting.
There are many styles of peg votive holders to choose from. Simple cylindrical or curved shapes allow the votive to be the focal point. More ornate styles may have cut-out patterns, faceted cuts, or other decorative elements as part of the holder design. Some peg votive holders are designed to be grouped together into a larger candle display. There are also hanging peg votive holders and some on bases or stands for tabletop use.
Benefits of Using Peg Votive Candle Holders
Peg votive candle holders offer several advantages over regular votive candles:
Safer alternative to regular votives
The glass and metal construction of peg votive holders provides a protective barrier between the flame and surroundings. This helps prevent potential fires or burns from the naked flame of regular votives.
Reusable and customizable
Peg votive holders allow you to insert and remove votive candles easily. This makes them reusable, unlike regular votive cups which get discarded after use. You can mix and match different colored votives in the holders to create custom, coordinating displays.
Allow you to display votive candles in more ways
The peg shape enables standing or hanging votive displays. You can arrange peg votive holders on tables, mantels, shelves, railings, wreaths and more. This versatility lets you incorporate votive candles into your decor in ways not possible with regular votives.
How to Use Peg Votive Candle Holders
Using peg votive candle holders is quick and easy. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your peg votive candle holders:
Inserting the Votive Candle
Peg votive holders have a metal or plastic prong at the base designed to hold a standard votive candle in place. Gently insert the pointed end of the votive candle onto the prong so that the candle sits securely inside the holder. Make sure the candle is centered and stable before lighting.
Lighting the Candle Safely
Use a long match or lighter to light the wick of the inserted votive candle. Be sure to keep the match or lighter flame away from the sides of the holder and only hold it to the wick until lit. Never leave a burning candle unattended.
Positioning the Holder Properly
Place the lit peg votive holder on a stable, level surface. Position it at least three inches from any flammable materials like curtains or wood surfaces. Group multiple peg votive holders together for a coordinated display, but leave a few inches between each one for safety and proper air circulation.
Decorating with Peg Votive Candle Holders
Peg votive candle holders open up a world of decorative possibilities. Here are some creative ways to use them to add ambiance, interest, and holiday cheer to your home decor:
In the living room, cluster 3-5 peg votive holders on a mantel or bookshelf for a cozy feel. Alternate heights for visual interest. For holiday decor, fill them with themed candles like pine or peppermint for Christmas, floral scents for spring, beachy coconut or ocean breezes for summer.
On the dining table, use peg votive holders down the center of the table in staggered heights interspersed with fresh flowers or greenery for a romantic dinner ambiance. For Thanksgiving or other holidays, fill them with cranberry or pumpkin spice candles.
In the bedroom, place peg votive candle holders on each nightstand to create a spa-like retreat. Experiment with calming scents like lavender or eucalyptus. For a festive fall look, fill them with caramel apple or cinnamon scented candles.
In the bathroom, arrange votives inside clear glass hurricane holders or hanging terrariums. Pair with relaxing scents like vanilla, jasmine or sandalwood. Or go for an invigorating ambiance with citrus or mint candles.
Outside on the patio or deck, line walkways or stair railings with staggered votive holders filled with citronella candles to keep mosquitos at bay in summer. Come winter, fill them with pine-scented votives for that perfect apres-ski lodge feeling.
Cleaning and Caring for Peg Votive Candle Holders
Peg votive candle holders require some simple cleaning and care to keep them looking their best. Here are some tips:
Cleaning Wax
As the candle burns down, wax can drip and collect on the glass votive holder. To clean, let the wax fully harden first. Then take a plastic bag and place it over your hand. Use the plastic bag to scrape off any hardened wax, which will easily peel off the glass surface. Another option is to place the votive holders in the freezer for 1-2 hours. The wax will harden and pop right off. Avoid using any sharp objects to scrape wax, as it could scratch the glass.
Storing Peg Votive Holders
When not in use, store peg votive candle holders in a safe, dry area. Place cotton balls, tissue paper, or bubble wrap between each glass votive to prevent them from touching and scratching. Store them away from any heat or sunlight which could cause warping or sun damage over time. An ideal storage spot is a cool, dark closet or drawer.
Fixing Chips and Cracks
Glass peg votive holders can get chipped or cracked with improper handling. Super glue can be used to fix small chips along the rim or base. For cracks, a clear glass repair epoxy is best. Completely fill in the cracked area, let dry fully, then sand and buff. This will make the crack almost invisible. For severe cracks or safety concerns, it’s best to replace the votive holder.
With proper care between uses, peg votive candle holders can serve you well for many years. Keep them clean, stored safely, and handle with care to get the most longevity.
Safety Tips for Using Peg Votive Candle Holders
Peg votive candle holders provide a charming way to decorate with candlelight. However, it’s important to follow basic fire safety guidelines when using any open flame candles:
– Always keep lit candles within sight. Never leave the room or go to sleep with candles burning.
– Keep candles out of reach of children and pets.
– Do not place candles near anything flammable like curtains, furniture, or bedding.
– Avoid placing candles directly under cabinets or shelving, where heat can build up.
– Use peg candle holders on sturdy, flat surfaces away from drafts. Don’t use on unstable surfaces or where they could be knocked over.
– Do not leave multiple candles burning unattended or for extended periods. Limit burn times to avoid excess wax buildup.
– Always extinguish candles completely before leaving a room. Blow them out or use snuffers rather than other methods which can allow wicks to smolder.
– Keep a close eye on candles as they burn down. The peg allows votives to sit at an angle, which can increase risk of tipping over as they melt down.
By taking a few simple precautions, peg votive candle holders can be an elegant and enjoyable way to infuse warm ambiance into any space.
Troubleshooting Peg Votive Candle Holders
Peg votive candle holders are handy decorative pieces, but you may run into some trouble now and then. Here are some tips for troubleshooting common issues with peg votive candle holders:
Fixing Candles That Don’t Stay in Place
If your votive candles seem loose in the holder and don’t stay upright, there are a couple of easy fixes. Try bending the metal pegs in slightly to tighten them – this will create more friction to hold the candle securely. You can also put a drop of wax or hot glue on the bottom of the candle before placing it on the peg. The wax or glue will act as an adhesive, keeping the candle anchored in place.
Dealing With Wax Drips
It’s common to get some wax dripping down the side of the pegs as the candle burns. Let the wax fully harden and then you can peel or chip it off the metal peg. Gently scraping with a plastic scraper or an old gift card works well for wax removal. You can also use a hairdryer to soften the wax and wipe it away with a paper towel. The heat helps dissolve the wax for easy clean-up.
Troubleshooting Damaged Pegs
If some of the pegs get bent, try using pliers to gently bend them back into shape. For broken pegs, you can remove them completely and replace them with sturdy wire or metal pins cut to size. Superglue or epoxy work to re-affix pegs that have come loose from the base. If the base cracks, you can try filling the crack with an appropriate adhesive. Damaged peg votive holders that cannot be repaired can be recycled or repurposed for other decorative uses around the home.
Peg Votive Candle Holder Ideas and Inspiration
Peg votive candle holders provide so many creative opportunities to personalize your space. Here are some inspiring ways to make them your own:
DIY Painted Holders
Painting the pegs in your favorite colors is an easy way to customize votive holders. Try mixing and matching bright colors for a fun pop of brightness. Or go for a more elegant look with metallic paints like copper, silver, or gold.
Etched Designs
Use etching cream or an etching tool to add patterns, monograms, words, or designs to the glass pegs. This gives your holders an extra special handmade touch.
Glitter Stem Holders
For a sparkly accent, coat the stems of the pegs with glitter glue before inserting them into the holder base. The glitter will catch the candlelight beautifully.
Seasonal Holders
Decorate your peg candle holders according to the season or holiday. Think spring flowers, autumn leaves, Christmas greenery. The options are endless!
However you choose to personalize them, peg votive holders are an easy way to add charm and flair to any space.
Where to Buy Peg Votive Candle Holders
Peg votive candle holders are readily available at most retail stores that sell home decor and candles. Here are some of the best places to find peg votive holders:
Craft Stores: Stores like Michaels, JoAnn Fabrics, Hobby Lobby, and AC Moore have a great selection of votive holders, including classic glass peg style holders. They often have coupons and sales on home decor items too.
Home Goods Stores: Check stores like HomeGoods, Marshall’s, TJ Maxx, and Ross for inexpensive peg votive holders. The selection rotates frequently.
IKEA: IKEA has affordable basic glass peg votive holders in packs of 6 or more. They have several classic shapes and styles to choose from.
Pier 1 Imports: For more decorative and ornate peg votive holders, Pier 1 is a go-to. They have various colors, shapes, and materials like glass, metal, and ceramic.
World Market: World Market stocks votive holders with global inspiration. They have interesting handcrafted designs and fair trade products.
You can also find peg votive holders at Walmart, Target, department stores, candle shops, and hardware stores. They are very widely available.
For more unique, specialty, or custom peg votive holders, check sites like Etsy, Anthropologie, and West Elm. You can also find personalized engraved and monogrammed holders. Sites like Amazon and Crate & Barrel also have a huge selection of candle holders to browse.
Peg Votive Candle Holders vs. Regular Votives
Peg votive candle holders and regular votive holders both have their advantages and drawbacks depending on your needs. Here’s an overview of the key differences:
Pros and Cons of Peg Votives
Peg votives have a spike or peg on the bottom that allows them to be inserted into a base or stand securely. Some benefits of peg votive holders include:
- Sturdy and stable – the peg helps keep them upright and anchored
- Reusable – the peg votives themselves can be removed and reused
- Customizable – peg votives allow you to create different looks by arranging them in various holders
- Safer with pets/kids – less risk of tipping over
Potential drawbacks include:
- Only fit in certain holders – unlike regular votives, they can’t be placed just anywhere
- Peg may get in the way – the bottom spike takes up interior space
Pros and Cons of Regular Votives
Regular votive candles don’t have a stabilizing peg, allowing more flexibility:
- Versatile – can be used in any holder, surface or placed directly on a table
- Maximize interior space – no protruding peg on bottom
- Simple to use – just place anywhere with a flat base
But regular votives also have some limitations:
- Not as stable – more prone to tipping over
- Can’t be reused – designed for one-time use
- Limited arrangements – can’t be inserted into a specialized holder
When to Use Each
Here are some recommendations on when to use each type:
- Use peg votives for holders with multiple openings, outdoor use, centerpieces, or any application where stability is key.
- Opt for regular votives if you want to simply place a votive on a plate, scatter them loosely, float them in water, or use in holders with a flat base.
- Use peg votives for frequently changed displays so you can reuse them. Use regular votives for one-time, disposable decor.
Assess your specific needs and priorities to decide which option is the best fit for your particular use case and design vision.
